Lavern E Hillesland

I will never forget Mr. Hillesland--I can't imagine calling him anything else. He changed my life. He got me into a summer program at Luther that opened a whole new world for me. Without him, my education would have taken a very different path. He went far beyond the usual effort for his students. I remember how he worked to learn new material to teach a class beyond what was then the standard classes in math. He had a tough semester, but because of those efforts, my calculus professor thought I had taken calculus in high school. I hadn't, but I had the preparation Mr. Hillesland believed we needed. My sympathies go out to his family and all who valued his life.

Vern (Mr. Hillesland to me) was a very good math teacher. He made college math so much easier as his students were so well prepared. I also remember babysitting for Jean and Verns daughter Wendy when Vern would walk me home at the end of the evening. Jean was my 2nd grade teacher and also recreated a prom dress for me from a previous dress I wore. Such GREAT people in my life. I'm sure he will be missed by so many. My heart goes out to you, Jean, and your family. Sincerely, Marlene Aakre (Larson).

Mr. Hillesland was my math teacher in HS and he had a great impact on my life. I particularly remember his technique of giving a test every Friday and then putting the tests on the desks - best score on desk 1 of front row, and next on 2nd desk and so on. This kept us on our toes. (I don't think I ever made it into the front row, but I studied and I I tried to be the first one done so I could win something). He was a teacher who knew his subject and found ways to make math interesting and to motivate almost all of his students. I took math in college and started a computer software company - I give significant credit to Mr Hillesland - thank you. Dave Copeland class of 62

Mr. Hillesland was an amazing man. He was an amazing leader and instructor in education. I have memories of him from attending Stewartville High School. Vern and Jean were also friends with my grandparents Wes and Tillie Foss. I have been in education for 29 years, and I'm so grateful to have been able to influenced by Vern. Prayers and thoughts for all family and friends. He will be greatly missed. Rebecca Aadalen (Foss)